Reports confirm country-wide demonstrations escalating into violence and roadblocks.The United Kingdom has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid all but essential travel to parts of Tanzania following widespread unrest and a nationwide curfew imposed after the country’s general elections on October 29.
In the latest update, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cited growing insecurity, transport disruptions, and communication blackouts as reasons for the heightened alert.
It warned that travel insurance could be invalidated if travellers disregard its guidance.
“Following protests and unrest in some parts of the country, the Tanzanian police announced a nationwide curfew effective from 6 pm local time on 29 October, which remains in place,” the FCDO said.
“Protests are ongoing in parts of the country, with some turning violent. There have been reports of live fire in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza and Mbeya.”
The curfew is being strictly enforced, with roadblocks and widespread closures reported across the country.
Most international flights to and from Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam have been cancelled, while Arusha and Kilimanjaro international airports remain closed.
Some flights to and from Zanzibar have also been suspended, and ferry operations between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar halted.
Tanzanians took to the streets over alleged electoral irregularities, opposition exclusion and growing political repression under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The scale is significant, with unrest including the torching of police stations, prompting military deployment, pointing to serious instability risks.
Reports confirm country-wide demonstrations escalating into violence and roadblocks.
British nationals in Tanzania have been advised to shelter in place, adhere to the curfew and avoid all demonstrations, rallies and large crowds.
The FCDO further noted “significant disruption to mobile networks, the internet and social media,” urging citizens to monitor local media and sign up for travel advice email alerts.
The advisory added that British nationals requiring consular assistance could reach officials 24/7 through the numbers +255 22 229 0000 or +44 (0)20 7008 5000.
Travellers are also reminded to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers their itinerary, planned activities and emergency expenses.
In addition to the protest-related alert, the FCDO has maintained an existing warning against all but essential travel to within 20 kilometres of the Tanzanian border with Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province, citing the threat of attacks by groups linked to Islamic extremism.
“The presence of groups linked to Islamic extremism in Cabo Delgado is creating cross-border tensions and instability. There is a risk of violent attacks,” the advisory noted, recalling a 2020 assault on Kitaya village claimed by militants operating from northern Mozambique.
The FCDO also cautioned against travelling near the Tanzania–Burundi border and in Kigoma region due to reports of armed robberies and vehicle hijackings, advising travellers to drive only during daylight hours.
Visitors to national parks were urged to exercise caution, as some areas are extremely remote and evacuation in emergencies can be difficult.
Campers were advised to use only official sites and follow all park regulations and warden guidance when viewing wildlife.
